Introduction to the Self-Sponsorship Visa
This update by Leena Chouhan explains the Self-Sponsorship Visa as a route for visa applicants. Indeed, you can sponsor yourself in the UK through the Self-Sponsorship route. This Visa is not a separate visa category but a strategic way to apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa without needing an external UK employer to sponsor you. This will be very helpful for many applicants.
Overview
Self-sponsorship is not a specific visa category but a legitimate pathway for business owners looking to establish themselves in the UK. By securing a Skilled Worker sponsor licence, business owners can sponsor themselves for a Skilled Worker visa. This approach enables entrepreneurs to start or join an active UK business while maintaining full control over their immigration status.
This route also offers a pathway to settlement in the UK. Eligible applicants can bring their dependent partners and children, and their partners can work full-time.
Eligibility Requirements for Self-Sponsorship
To qualify for a self-sponsored Skilled Worker visa, applicants must meet certain criteria as with any visa. In this case the self-sponsorship visa requirements are as follows: The candidate must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have an active UK company.
- Ensure the UK company holds a Skilled Worker sponsor licence.
- Obtain a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from the company.
- Demonstrate that the job offer is a genuine vacancy.
- Meet the appropriate skill level for the role.
- Satisfy the salary requirements.
- Prove English language proficiency at CEFR Level B1 (equivalent to UKVI IELTS Band 4.0).
It is worth noting however that specific requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Sponsor Licence Requirements
The Home Office will assess whether the business:
- Is genuine and engaged in lawful activities.
- Has adequate HR processes to manage sponsorship duties.
- Offers a genuine vacancy that meets salary and skill level requirements.
Typical supporting documents must be provided as with any visa. These can vary depending on your circumstances, but include:
- A proper corporate bank account with an FCA-regulated bank.
- Employer registration with HMRC for PAYE and National Insurance.
- VAT registration (if applicable).
- Employer’s liability insurance.
- Proof of business premises ownership or lease.
- Financial documents such as annual accounts or tax filings.
How Long Must a Business Operate Before Applying for a Sponsor Licence?
There is no minimum trading period. As long as the company is incorporated, holds a business bank account, and is registered for PAYE, VAT (if applicable), and National Insurance, it can apply for a sponsor licence.
At Taylor Hampton, we assist startups and international businesses in securing sponsor licences. We provide full support, including HR compliance, right-to-work checks, and sponsor licence maintenance services.
Skilled Worker Visa Requirements
Applicants must provide:
- A valid Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Proof of English proficiency (CEFR Level B1 / UKVI IELTS Band 4.0 or higher).
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves and dependents.
- A police clearance certificate (if required).
- A tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (if required).
Visa applications can be submitted up to three months before the applicant’s intended start date.
Processing Times and Priority Services
- Standard processing: 15 working days for applications outside the UK, 8 weeks for applications inside the UK.
- Priority services: Faster processing is available at an additional cost.
What are the steps necessary to obtain the visa?
There are a number of protocols for obtaining the self-sponsorship visa and it is desirable to check with a visa expert, preferably a qualified, well established Solicitor handing cases on a daily basis. Getting it right is paramount and you do not want to jeopardise your chances of success.
Conclusion
The UK self-sponsorship route offers entrepreneurs a practical and flexible pathway to live and work in the UK while growing their business. With expert legal guidance, the process can be smooth and efficient. At Taylor Hampton, we specialise in helping business owners navigate the complexities of UK immigration, from company formation to sponsor licence applications and Skilled Worker visa submissions.
For tailored advice on self-sponsorship, contact our immigration team today on 00442074275972